Site description This is one of Belarus' largest complexes of small-leafed forest swamps, fens, bogs, river floodplains and shallow lakes.

Key Biodiversity The mix of inaccessible forests, river floodplains, open fens and highly-productive lakes defines large population sizes of several rare bird species. The unique nature of the site is underscored by presence of the last Polesian populations of Great Grey Owl Strix nebulosa (6-10 pairs), as well as the West-European subspecies of Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus mayor (15-25 males). Regular breeding of several pairs of White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla has been recorded.

Habitats

Land use

Land-use

Extent (% of site)

agriculture

5%

forestry

30%

hunting

20%

nature conservation and research

45%

Protection statusNational Conservation Status: A national hydrological zakaznik was established in 1968.International Conservation Status: An IBA was established in 1998 (criteria À1, Â2, B3).Potential Ramsar site (criteria 1, 2).